Does a Weight Distribution System Affect Tongue Weight

Question:

I have a 2009 mercedes ml 320 bluetec rated at 7200# towing/572# hitch weight and pulling a 25 foot camper rated at 6800# gvwr. I am concerned about my tongue weight and tried to determine at a commercial scale. I found the results confusing for determining tongue weight, but did determine that my camper is 6300 # the way I have been using it. I still want to get the tongue weight answer AND can you tell me does the weight distribution/anti-sway bars on my tongue reduce at all the tongue weight? I figure if it is distributing the weight forward and onto my cars 4wheels then weight is off the hitch, right? thanks for your ideas/recommendations here. I want to go to the west coast but want to have peace of mind too.

asked by: Neal S

Helpful Expert Reply:

I attached an FAQ article to the right that details exactly how you can determine the tongue weight of your setup. Without knowing what results you got or how you attempted to determine the tongue weight at the scale it's pretty hard for me to figure out what you actually have.

You are correct though, a weight distribution system will distribute the tongue weight from the rear axle of the vehicle where the hitch is to the front axle.

I also attached an FAQ article on weight distribution for you to check out.

For peace of mind I would recommend you determine the tongue weight of your setup, make sure it's below the rating for the hitch and vehicle, and then get a properly rated WD system.

expert reply by: Jameson C